Among adults, 18 to 24 year-olds attempt suicide more often than any other age group.

Know the warning signs

The most effective way to prevent suicide is to know the warning signs, take those signs seriously, and respond appropriately. People who are suicidal can be helped with the proper treatment. Common warning signs of suicide include:

Hopelessness

Rage, uncontrolled anger, or seeking reveng

Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking

Feeling trapped — like there’s no way out

Increased alcohol or drug use

Withdrawing from friends, family and society

Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time

Dramatic mood changes

Expressing no reason for living or no sense of purpose in life

Threatening or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself

Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide when it is out of the ordinary